What does a Service Manager do?
A Service Manager leads a service department in the automotive industry. They oversee the business and administrative aspects of a company’s service center. Service Managers monitor the performance of the service staff, train new hires in their department, and manage the service department’s operating budget. A Service Manager also maintains harmony and promotes teamwork within the service department and with other company departments. In addition, they create a marketing plan to promote the business, ensure the department’s compliance with manufacturer warranties and policy procedures, and establish a positive and professional relationship with customers to encourage their return or the chances of them providing the company with a referral.
Service Manager skills and qualifications
To be a good Service Manager, candidates should be strong communicators and good problem solvers. The candidate should have the ability to lead a service team while ensuring quality customer repairs and satisfaction. They use their industry knowledge and management experience on a daily basis. Other skills and qualifications required may include:
- Extensive knowledge of industry standards and best practices, including details about the company and manufacturers
- Good time management skills to handle all service or customer problems that arise on any given business day
- Customer service skills to resolve complaints efficiently and encourage repeat customers
- Teamwork skills to encourage the collaborative performance of the service team
- Verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with customers and the service team
Service Manager experience requirements
Service Managers usually have at least two years of previous working experience in the automotive industry as an Automotive Service Technician, Mechanic, or Automobile Service Advisor. They also generally have prior management and sales experience in order to succeed in their role.
Service Manager education and training requirements
While a post-secondary degree isn’t required, some Service Managers obtain a degree in automotive technology management. It also helps if they have at least two years of training in the automotive industry, as well as managerial experience. Service Managers may also obtain a certificate to further their education and knowledge in this field. For a Service Manager role, candidates should have studied course topics like industry communication, business planning, technician supervision, customer service, and sales. Holding a degree from a program with similar coursework sets them up for the greatest success in this position.
Service Manager salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Service Manager is $71,708 per year. This salary may depend on experience, location, and education.
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